Namfarmers Magazine Feb

Namfarmers

Namibia’s Farmers Magazine | www.namfarmers.com.na | February 2021

N$25 (VAT Inc.)

Brahman, still regarded as the breed of choice by many farmers Earthworms, the best added value to any garden or crop land Keys to a bumper successful harvest

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CONTENTS

01

ARMOURED BUSH CRICKET (ABC): A THREAT TO FARMERS WITHIN OMUSATI REGION, OUTAPI CONSTITUENCY.

03

EARTH DAMS TO BOOST FOOD SECURITY WITHIN OSHANA REGION.

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THE ROAD TO A BUMPER SUCCESSFUL HARVEST

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LACK OF FORMAL MARKETS: A GREATER CONCERN FOR OLUSHANDJA FARMERS EARTHWORMS, THE BEST ADDED VALUE TO ANY GARDEN OR CROP LAND.

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NAMIBIAN GRAPE FARMERS WITHIN THE SOUTH, EXPECTED TO ROPE IN BIG RETURNS THIS YEAR.

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Namfarmers Published by Wernock Investment Tel: 085 709 0 370 Po Box 23875, Windhoek www.namfarmers.com.na Sales/Advertising Hilfa Hilifa Cell: +264 81 231 5 299 Email: info@namfarmers.com.na Accounts manager Werner Shimbamba 085 709 0 370 accounts@namfarmers.com.na Editorial Editor: Ismael Shilongo ihshilng@gmail.com +264813245612 Design & Layout Senior designer: Pyranam Group Investment CC Tel:+264 85 735 5672 | +264 81 8337830 Email:designbypyranam@zohomail.com ISSN2026-8726

WENKE VIR DIE BESTUUR VAN FOSFAATAANVULLING IN DIE REËNSEISOEN

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BRAHMAN, STILL REGARDED AS THE BREED OF CHOICE BY MANY FARMERS

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MITIGATING HUMAN WILDLIFE CONFLICT

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SMART HYDROPONIC GROW SYSTEM INCREASES PRODUCTION BY 40%

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MEATCO EYES OPPORTUNITIES IN EUROPE AND THE UNITED KINGDOM

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RESEARCHERS PLAN TO USE SATELLITES TO IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY, YIELD

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Disclaimer All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written consent of the publishers. The information provided and opinions expressed in this publication are provided in good faith but do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher or editor.

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THE RIGHT TIME IS NOW, TO LEARN AND WORK WITH EACH OTHER. It is fascinating how time moves, so swift and so fast.

Hours translates into days, days into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years. That is how the hand of time keeps on moving and this time around, it have ushered us into a new phase and bright year of 2021.

The year gone by was one filled with testing and full of challenges; with this bright year (2021), we do not know what it holds but we can only do our best and hope that the odds will be in our favour.

Beyond any shadow of doubt, it have been proven that it is very difficult for one to survive and make it while in isolation or isolated. We are all made in a way whereby we should interact with those around us and with our environment. This is so true and very reflective especially among the farming community.

This year; we are encouraging communal, emerging, commercial and all other farmers to not only learn from each other’s but to also work with each other. Farmers that have been successful in their profession throughout the years, should share their knowledge with new upcoming and struggling farmers. It is also very important that new upcoming and struggling farmers to not only remain in the dark and in isolation, but rather to seek for knowledge, help and advice from those that have been successfully involved in the farming profession.

As we are all keen and determined to propel and advance the Agri-sector in Namibia, one of the basis to achieve this is whereby we all work together in unity and learn from each other. Nature alone, has taught us that we become a force to be reckon once we are united to achieve a common goal. On the far left, there is an image of a shaped like mountain and it also looks like a hill. This is what we call a termite mound.

This structure was built by insects that are known as Mound-building termites and mind you, these insects are the size of ants. Now; one, two, three, four or five of these termites could never build this great structure but together once they are all united, that`s when they turn the impossible into the possible by constructing such a structure.

If we all unite and work together, with one aim of propelling the agricultural sector in 2021 then we will be a force to be reckon and bring about good disturbance to the Agri-sector.

Happy reading..

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Armoured Bush Cricket (ABC):

A threat to farmers within Omusati region, Outapi Constituency.

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armers within Omusati region, Outapi Constituency are very worried of the looming armoured bush cricket (also known as the corn cricket), that are scattered around their cultivated field. Armoured bush crickets (ABC) are destructive flightless species that typically grows to a body length of about 5 cm and they are known to attack or feed on crops.

Namfarmers team visited one of the affected village in Omusati region, Okafitukeonde village. Speaking to Abiatar; a farmer, she shewed us the devastating effects that the crickets are having on her crops.

“Last year (2020), we experienced some armoured bush cricket, but they only started somewhere around March and they were just among few”, says Abiatar.

Although the older generation of the armoured bush cricket was entirely wiped out last year, by then they already laid their www.namfarmers.com.na

eggs which only hatched out now during this current rainy season.

and ensure that they do not get to reproduce again,” says Abiatar.

Upon our visitation to her field, we found the armoured cricket that were scattered across her Mahangu field. Abiatar narrates that, although the armoured cricket are small in size for now, with time as they feed on the crops they will grow and be bigger.

The villager have learned that once the cricket have reached maturity stage, they will reproduce and lay their eggs within the ground. The eggs will normally remain there until the next rainy season.

“The armoured bush cricket are mostly attacking Pearl Millet, Sorghum and Maize. Partially are they seen eating vegetables such as watermelons, ground nuts and beans”, she said.

In regard to fighting off these fierce pests, Abiatar and other villagers have resorted to collecting the cricket from the field while they are still in their infant stage. They then put them in plastic bottles, which they seal and burn them.

“Collecting the armoured bush cricket from the field is a very tiring process, but we have to do this in order to eliminate the pests

“Before it rained, there was no any armoured bush cricket on our field. However, after it rained and once we cultivated our field, our crops started growing. This was the same exact time that we started seeing this unwanted visitors in our field”, says Abiatar.

Abiatar says that, all that she is now striving to achieve with her household is to completely eliminate the armoured bush cricket while they are still in their infant stage. “If we completely get rid of them, while they are young/ small, this will ensure that they will not get any chance to reproduce again on our land”, says Abiatar.

Although completely eliminating the cricket, might be 01

possible to them; Abiatar fears that if her neighbours and all other villagers don`t eliminate or get to kill the cricket while they are in their infant stage, they will grow to be bigger again, reproduce and reinfect the entire village.

Upon our visitation, Abiatar says that they haven`t yet taken up the matter with the Agricultural Extension officers, however she was in the process of consulting with other villagers so that they can take up the issue to the right officials.

Speaking to other villagers, they fear that the cricket might negatively affect their harvest if they so continue to persist. The villagers are however determined that they will win the fight against these fierce pest, if not now sometimes later.

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In the picture: children’s are seen assisting in the collection process of the armoured bush cricket.

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Earth dams to boost food security within Oshana region.

The green schemes are expected to boost food security within Oshana region

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inistry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform and the Natural Planning Commission, had authorised the Oshana regional council to start constructing earth dams and set up green schemes in its 11 constituencies.

It has been estimated that 44 earth dams and 44 green schemes will be set up in the 11 constituencies of the region. However an implementation plan is still to be devised, in which new councillors will be briefed on the projwww.namfarmers.com.na

ect.

The communities within the region was already consulted, and sites for the earth dams and green schemes have been identified. The green schemes are expected to contribute to food security within Oshana region and beyond.

Jekonia Nangolo, the chief regional planner at the Oshana Regional Council said that the Ogongo Agricultural College in Omusati region will be contacted to assist with setting up of the green schemes.

The community members are ex-

pected to benefits as the people to work on the green schemes will be drawn among them.

The idea to construct earth dams and set up green schemes has been welcomed by man y members. “The idea to build earth dams is long overdue, as the rain water has always been flooding and going to waste within the open flood plains. With earth dams, we will finally utilise our water and utilise it for agricultural purposes”, says Shilongo who hails from Onampira Village.

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THE ROAD TO A BUMPER SUCCESSFUL HARVEST.

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t is so yummy and satisfying to eat fresh and healthy produce. Be it cabbages; tomatoes, carrots, onions, watermelons, cereals, spinach, groundnuts and the list goes on. Consuming fresh produce is one thing, but do we ever have any clue about how farmers get to produce successful high yield?

Namfarmers team had a deep interview with Bertha Kulaumone, a farmer that successfully grows groundnuts, beans, watermelons, pumpkins and pearl millet.

According to Bertha, there are a lot of nitty-gritty and pieces that have to go hand-in-hand in order to realise a successful high yield. Among all the specific aspects that have to be considered, Bertha summed them up in three (3) key essentials or ingredients which are: preparation, input cost and patience.

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PREPARATION Bertha stated that, those that are better and clearly prepared will reap all the benefits that goes along with it. As a farmer, you have to be well prepared before you start planting your items. Bertha outlined that a farmer, who is not well prepared with his/her farming initiatives is not worth to be involved in the farming profession.

Preparation needs to be done in hand, in terms of the soil content and which soil type to use (soil fertility), the standard of seed type/seedling to use, your water supply source, your geographic location/site where you get to grow your produce and the specific type of produce that you want to grow.

Preparation of the soil is very critical, by ensuring that the soil have the required nutritional requirements, the necessary fertilisers needed are added and that its pH is suitable for those specific items that you want

to grow.

“A farmer who is not well prepared with his/her farming initiatives is not worth to be involved in the farming profession” Preparing the soil is the basic principle and lay the foundation to producing a successful bumper harvest. Bertha also emphasised that, the seeds or seedlings that will be used have to be sorted out earlier and be prepared in advance. Overall, the state of the seed or seedlings being used have a direct effect to the yield that will be produced. It is also critical for producers to have an efficient source of water supply and to fully prepare and put in place their irrigation systems. Preparation of all these key components is key. www.namfarmers.com.na

Preparation of the soil is very critical, by ensuring that the soil have the required nutritional requirements.

Lastly; in regard to preparation, she emphasised that the geographic location also have an effect on the type of items that will be produced and the time by which they have to be produced.

Once all this necessary preparation are put in place, farmers will be a step closer to realising a bumper successful harvest.

INPUT COST Bertha stressed that, there is a price and cost that needs to be settled in order to have a bumper successful harvest. As a farmer, one needs to invest in input such as seeds, compost or organic fertilisers, equipment or machinery and implement to use on the farm, mechanism for pest control and above all the human labour. Not all things come on a free silver platter, for some we have to pay a dime or two for them. However; it is not in vain and just like casting bread upon water, along the road, farmers will fully get to realise the benefits of doing so. As a result, farmers should ensure that they acquire quality seeds or seedlings from reputable sources. Seeds and seedlings that do not only produce high yield, but they are also disease resistant and adapted to those specific environment. www.namfarmers.com.na

“Not all things come on a free silver platter, for some we have to pay a dime or two for them.”

Farmers should also invest in mechanism and measures that keeps away pests. Most importantly, Bertha encourages farmers to invest and educate their staff on the farm as staffs do also play a critical role when it comes to the management of the farm. She believes that, when the employees are happy, they will execute the task delegated to them at their very level best and overall productivity will increase on the farm. In addition, Bertha emphasised that in order to grow, farmers need to invest in educating themselves by learning from others and by attending farmers’ workshops and trainings. Knowledge and skills gained or learned can never be robbed or stolen from us, instead they enhance our livelihood, says Bertha.

PATIENCE Once a farmer have fully prepared the above mentioned components and have invested within the necessary input, the farmer can then proceed to grow his/her produce. This often requires the

farmer to be patient until the desired results are produced. All in all, once farmers have done their best by enhancing the soil, sowing the seeds or transplanting the seedlings they would then be required to be patient until the items grow to the point where they are able to produce. One can`t force or do any magic towards the seeds so that they can grow out of the soil, but all that will be required is for one to be patient, says Bertha.

Bertha states that every farmer needs to be patient with his/her farming venture. She encourages farmers that are just starting off to be patient with their activities and give themselves some times before they realise growth.

“One can`t force or do any magic towards the seeds so that they can grow out of the soil, but all that will be required is for one to be patient” In her closing remarks; Bertha said that in order to really realise a bumper successful harvest, farmers should always prepare themselves in advance, do not hold back when it comes to investing in the required input and should be patient with their farming ventures.

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LIVESTOCK FARMING!

How well do you take care of your livestock’s?

Sign up for our Newslater, so that you can get free tips on Good Agricultural Practices on raising livestock and other critical roles in Agriculture and Farming.

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Lack of formal markets: a greater concern for Olushandja farmers.

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ased in Omusati region, Epalela constituency, the Olushandja Horticulture Producers Association (OHPA) consists of farmers that grows tomatoes, green beans, butternuts, cabbage, lettuce,

onions, green pepper, carrots, water melons, pumpkins and chillies.

Although they produce these items in great numbers, securing a formal market where they can sell their produce is very

difficult for these farmers.

They often sell their produce to informal markets which is not fully reliable, and sometimes they are forced to seat at home, watching their products rotting.

Sylvanus Naunyango, Chairperson of OHPA made an appeal to the agriculture minister Calle Schlettwein to find formal local markets for their fresh produce. The appeal was made to the minister during his recent visit to Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions.

Naunyango requested the minister to help them find secure formal markets through public institutions. According to Naunyango, the Agro Marketing and Trade Agency (AMTA) has tried finding a market for the farmers through local retailers however this couldn`t materialise as retailers already buys from established local producers and also import into the country.

Schlettwein told the association that there is a directive that state – owned enterprises, ministries, prisons, school and regional councils, should source produce locally. “That directive must be implemented. We will push it very hard”, he said.

Naunyango also raised the issue of pests destroying their produce especially tomatoes. He appealed for the ministry to deploy more agricultural extension officers to help fight the pest.

Members of OHPA are sometimes forced to seat at home, watching their products rotting as there are no formal markets to sell their produce.

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Happy New Year 2021 Biomass Sector Impact

N-BiG

Namibia Biomass industry Group

300.000

860

11.300

HECTARES bush controlled annually

FARMERS produced livestock feed during drought

JOBS in harvesting & processing

50%

1.8 million

increase in charcoal exports

HECTARES certified by FSC

1,250 SMEs in sector associations

Namibian Charcoal Exports (NAD million)

230.88

650.00

BCBU

*Monitoring & Evaluation Survey 2020

EARTHWORMS, THE BEST ADDED VALUE TO ANY GARDEN OR CROP LAND

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hey are regarded to serve and recondition the soil through their up and down movement in the soil, yet little is known or many people are unaware of the critical role that earthworms plays, let alone the concept of Vermiculture.

The movement of earthworms within the soil creates pores which ensures that much needed nutrients are transported easily down to the roots of the plants where it`s needed.

W o r m farming also referred to as Vermiculture, is a simple but precision method of waste management and 08

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recycling of organic degradable material making use of worms as the vessels to quicken the decomposing process. The raising of earthworms within controlled condition is known as Vermiculture, while the method of producing the fertiliser by breeding and keeping earthworms is known as Vermicomposting.

At Worms “R” Us, they are striving to expand the horizon of worm farming within Namibia.

Spearheaded by Wilma Gaweses and driven by the moto “Give back to soil to receive back”, Worms “R” Us is based in Otjozondjupa region, within Otjiwarongo. Wilma and her team farms with the Red Wiggler worms. This type of earthworms are smaller in posture, they can live in a confined space and are faster in decomposing waste material.

Currently, they are conducting www.namfarmers.com.na

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their activities on a small scale level however they are intending to expand in the future and farm on a large scale level. Worm “R” Us practice container worm farming where they produce organic Vermicompost, also popularly known as worm-tea. This is produced from sieved final product of Vermicompost and used as an organic liquid fertilisers.

According to Wilma, earthworms have a very unique and divine purpose as they break down material which they will in return excrete good nutritious castings that is turned into compost. Wilma explains that, not every worm does damage to crops, in regard to earthworms they don`t even feed on alive roots, they only feed on decomposed material. That`s how smart they are, says Wilma.

Earthworms plays a critical role in neutralising the soil fertility.

They play a huge role underneath the soil as they create pores which helps in improving the drainage or rather the water holding capacity of the soil. This further helps in the transportation of nutrients to the roots for excellent absorption, which aids in feeding the plant and resulting in good growth.

Underneath the soil, earthworms also helps in maintaining long-term sustainability of physical, chemical and biological properties of soil along with the fertility power of

the soil.

Wilma stresses that, the worms should be kept away from too much direct sunlight. They have sensitive “skin” and can die when exposed to direct sunlight.

The worm bins or beds needs to be kept moist (not too wet and not too dry).

Most importantly, worms don`t like acidic environment.

That`s why, feeding the worms citrus fruits and cooked food is discouraged. In fact, these food can make the compost acidic and can also cause the compost to heat up, which in turn can kill the worms. Earthworms love moist environments hence, constant monitoring and taking of temperature is essentials to keep a healthy worm bin environment.

Wilma emphasise that, being involved in the worm farming industry is not a walk in the park.

One of the most unpleasant challenge is when they have to separate matured worm casting from the bin. It`s done through a sieving process and at times there can be a lot of fatalities. There is also a challenge of monetary.

According to Wilma, the process needs funds to go commercial and produce tons of Vermicompost, which is needed by every farmer.

Horticulturist and gardeners that are interested in reconditioning and enhancing their soil through

Earthworms enhances and recondition the soil naturally, and is free from chemicals.

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the principle and application of worm farming, should reach out towards Worms “R” Us. When people buy Vermicompost from us, it is full of earthworms’ cocoons, which helps in increasing worm activity in soil and further results in increasing the population of worms in the soil, says Wilma.

Vermicompost is rich in enzymes, valuable Vitamins, and hormones and more. In addition, Vermicompost is very much helpful in preventing soil erosion when applied as a topical mulch on garden and crop soil beds.

The principle and application of worm farming enhances and recondition the soil naturally, and is free from chemicals. Wilma says that if the pandemic crisis taught us anything it is that; we should go back to nature and depend on it for a healthy and sustainable living.

To achieve this sustainable living and produce our own food, we can start small by enhancing our soils through the natural way of Vermiculture.

For those that would be interested in Vermicompost, natural liquid fertilisers, earthworms and guidance on Vermiculture; reach out to Worm “R” Us at: iwgawe@ iway.na +264818678690 P O Box 1257 Otjiwarongo

Underneath the soil, earthworms helps in maintaining long-term sustainability of physical, chemical and biological properties of soil along with the fertility power of the soil.

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Namibian grape farmers within the South, expected to rope in big returns this year.

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he Namibian`s grape industry employs about 12 000 people and its grapes are designated to markets such as the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and North America. The local market is relatively small and 1% of table grapes are consumed in Namibia.

Kobus Bothma, vice chairman of the Namibian Grape Growers Association said that the industry`s greatest challenge currently is market access. Bothma believes that if they would get more market where they can sell the grapes, this will ensure sustainability.

Namibia`s season estimates was expected to be 7.6 million × 4.5 Kg boxes (34 200 tonnes), but

instead it delivered 8.6 million × 4.5 Kg boxes (38 700 tonnes). This has resulted in Namibia shipping out 33 000 tonnes of table grapes, earning N$ 840 million for the 2019/20 season.

was a blessing in disguise.

The delay in starting, coupled with ideal weather conditions during the packing period, have in fact produced for of excellent quality, as noted by

The variety of grapes that Bothma. are grown in Namibia, are namely cool, not too white, red and black. The black The are mainly seedless for table cold conditions in spring and grape production and exports. temperatures in the mid – 30`s Once processed, the grapes can for November and December with produce good white and red wines. no rain in the harvesting period Brandy can also be produced as a are ideal conditions for the grape secondary product from the waste industry. berries.

The Namibia Grape Growers Association, is optimistic and hopes

Namibia`s grape season normally range from November to to grow through the development January but cooler conditions in of new markets and varieties. This August and September delayed the will in-turn have a good ripple effect season. According to Bothma, this on the economy, as it will translate into more jobs for Namibian

Namibia`s season estimates was expected to be 7.6 million × 4.5 Kg boxes (34 200 tonnes), but instead it delivered 8.6 million × 4.5 Kg boxes (38 700 tonnes).

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MONTHLY TIP: PHOSPHATE NEEDED FOR OPTIMAL ANIMAL PRODUCTION Animals need phosphate throughout the year, because it is a very important mineral for optimal animal production. In fact, animals need small amounts of phosphate every day to maintain production. A phosphate lick is very necessary during the rainy season as all animals are in a fast-growing phase which leads to increased metabolism. Phosphate is essential for good fertility, development of the bone structure, energy metabolism and milk production.

Wenke vir die bestuur van Fosfaataanvulling in die reënseisoen Danie de Lange: Tegniese Adviseur

Fosfaat- en proteïenlekaanvulling is deel van suksesvolle rooivleisproduksie in Namibië.

Fosfaataanvulling in die vorm van Futterfos P6 is baie goedkoop en diere kry dit meestal net gedurende 4 maande op groen weiding. Die produsent moet dus alles in sy vermoë doen om sy diere maksimum toegang tot fosfaat te gee. Verwyder ook klipsout by beide skaap- en beestroppe om optimale fosfaatinnames te verseker.

Feedmaster se proteïenlekreeks bevat derhalwe ook deurgaans hoër vlakke fosfaat om die weiding se lae vlakke en diere se fosfaatbehoeftes aan te vul.

1. Hoeveel Futterfos P6 moet in die www.namfarmers.com.na

lekbakke gegooi word Die produk is ‘n fosfaatmineraalaanvulling met ‘n hoë soutinhoud, dus is die produk se innames relatief laag. Kamp- en tropgroottes, tipe lekbakke en hoe gereeld poste/waters kontroleer word is bepalend, dus die volgende riglyne: Grootvee: Teen 150 – 200g/Koei/dag behoort 50 koeie slegs 70kg P6 in sewe 7 dae te vreet.

Besluit of die volle hoeveelheid eenmalig uitgesit word en of dit in twee porsies vir die week opgedeel word bv Maandag en Vrydag.

Kleinvee:

Teen 15 -20g/Ooi/dag behoort 250 ooie slegs 35kg P6 in 7 dae te vreet.

Verdeel die lek tussen ten minste 2- 4 lekbakke as gevolg van die tropgrootte.

2. Hoe gereeld moet die lekbakke aangevul word ?

Omrede dit hoofsaaklik ‘n fosfaatmineraal aanvulling is, kan diere paar dae sonder fosfaatlek wees indien dit gereeld reën. Die feit is egter dat diere verkieslik daagliks toegang moet hê tot P6, veral koeie 13

met kalwers en lammerooie.

en innames uiters laag wees dus is dit belangrik om dit gereeld los te 3. Wat moet ek doen indien die maak en deur te meng. produk in die lekbakke natgereën het?

4. Wat maak ek in kampe met oop Fosfaatprodukte bevat geen ureum water ? nie, dus is daar geen gevaar van Maak seker dat dat daar ‘n lekbak vergiftiging nie. Na gelang van hoe by die pos sowel as by die water in nat die produk is, kan dit in die die veld is. Diere kom gewoonlik by bak deurgemeng word of uitgegooi panne bymekaar en kan lekbakke word om droog te word en met hier uitgesit word om fosfaat vars produk gemeng word. Indien inname te verseker. die produk baie nat is en in bakke gelos word, sal dit kliphard raak 5. Wat is die oplossings vir meeste

van bogenoemde probleme in die reënseisoen ?

Toeklapbakke vir bees maak dit moontlik om groter hoeveelhede Futterfos P6 per trop uit te gooi en dieselfde lekbak word vir proteïenlekke ook gebruik. Die bakke skakel baie vermorsing, windverliese en probleme met duiwe en tarentale uit.

Toeklapbakke is egter ‘n “nice to have”, maar nie ‘n voorskrif nie.

Vir enige verdere navrae skakel 061 290 1300 www.feedmaster.com.na

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he Brahman are known for their exceptional hardiness, physical stamina, the fact that they live twice as long as normally expected and their ability to profitably produce on marginal lands. History and records have it that, the first Brahmans were imported to the land of the brave in 1954 by the late Mr. Jurgen Cranz and his wife Vera, to their farm Isabis in the Windhoek district of Namibia. This was quickly followed by more imports by other breeders.

After sixty seven (67) years since the arrival of the Brahman, today many farmers across Namibia has selected the Brahman as their 14

breed of choice because of the variety of characteristic traits that they possess.

Having a greater influence and known to play a critical role among the beef industry, this makes it one of the visible reason why many farmers have opted to

farm with the Brahman. It have been recorded that approximately 70% of the national beef cattle population are Brahman infused or Brahman type cattle.

As outlined by the Namibian Brahman Breeders Society, Brahman cross-calves are sought www.namfarmers.com.na

after and regularly achieve top prices at auctions. They are easy to either feed or grow out in the veld due to their efficient fodder conversion. They have the ability to easily reach marketability in terms of growth, carcass quality and highyielding carcasses with the desired fat, which is a huge economic factor in their favour.

By 18 months to two years, crossbred steer will have grown into strong, robust individuals, rounded off well on the veld, ready for marketing. This is the pay off, because they weigh! At 2 to 2 and half years Brahman steer can still attain their prime A grade, because cattle producers on the urge to select and farm with breeds that are able to survive and thrive where other types could not thrive. Again the Brahman makes it suitable to farm in the harsh Namibian environment due to their ability to adapt and at the same time withstanding vast climatic differences.

With Namibian temperatures known to skyrocket, many farmers have opted to choose the Brahman breed as they are heat tolerant due to their dark skin pigmentation, which filters the intense rays of the sun. The breed is also known to have special feature of sweating freely, which contributes greatly to their heat tolerance. Their thick, glossy hair coat reflects much of the sun`s rays; in fact the abundance of loose skin increases the body surface area exposed to cooling.

Namibian farmers are exposed to predators such as leopard, spotted hyenas, cheetahs and jackals which sometimes have they shed their milk teeth a little direct confrontation and conflict later than other breeds, thereby with farmers. As a result of this, many farmers have again opted to qualifying for a premium.

Namibia is known to be choose the Brahman as the females a semi-arid country with harsh have great mothering abilities, climatic weather conditions. With protecting their young against all such difficult conditions, it puts predators. Many breeders and livestock producers will attest to www.namfarmers.com.na

the extreme lengths to which they will go to protect their calves. The females are also known to have a lengthy productive life - the cows are recorded to calve when they are 15-20 years old.

Again as highlighted by the Namibian Brahman Breeders Society; due to their efficient mobility, Brahmans can cover great distances in search of grazing and water points. This is a huge plus factor in dry and extensive farming practices. In times of drought when it becomes necessary to move cattle over long distances, breeders have reported an amazement about the Brahman`s ability to walk.

New emerging farmers have also been recorded to farm with the Brahman, due to their ability to cross well with other breed type.

Brahman also have the ability to reproduce on a regular basis in stressful environments and even in the most severe drought situations they survive with the lowest quantity and quality of fodder.

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MITIGATING HUMAN WILDLIFE CONFLICT

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he tension between farmers or the general public and wild animals is not one that is new to us, but one that has been on-going for years and years. Just like us, wild animals are inhabitants of the earth and on many occasions we are found competing for territory and living spaces with them.

Territorials for grazing or for hunting their prey is one of the reasons that brings us in direct confrontation and many times resulting in conflict with wild animals.

Although wild animals are kept in enclosed nature reserved parks and wildlife resort centre, on numerous occasions they often find an escape route that directly lead them to the general public. We often hear reports of lions escaping from the wild and attacking live stocks, elephants coming from the wild and destroying irrigated crops and even worse, we have statistics of peoples` that have been killed or injured due to direct confrontation with Hippopotamus and crocodiles.

But why all this conflict between farmers or the general public and

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wild animals?

There are several reasons why conflict occur and will continue to exist between wild animals and the general public out there. One of the reason that is worth being explored, is the lack of adequate territory for wild animals. Generally, wild animals are known to cover a larger range of land as they graze or when they hunt their prey.

When wild animals are confined within little spaces or area that does not have sufficient grazing and enough prey to hunt, they are often forced to cross their boundary and look for grazing pastures or prey elsewhere. This is one of the reason, why a pride of lion or a herd of elephant gets to escape from the wild and bring about direct confrontation with farmers. This is often a clear sign, that the animals do not have enough territory for their own exploration and thus leading them to turn towards humans.

In fact, it have been recorded that livestock losses to predators are higher when natural wild prey is scarce. However, there is an exception to this, as at times

a troubling animal, might be a ferocious bull from an elephant herd or just a nomadic male lion can break free from the rest to cause unnecessary problems to farmers even when there are enough prey to hunt and grazing pastures. With such wild behavior, this often results to that specific animals being taken down by officials from the MEFT.

Human negligence and not respecting or giving enough space to wild animals such as Hippopotamus, crocodiles and buffalos can lead to catastrophic and devastating results. Many incidence and statistics that have been recorded as a result of humans being attacked by crocodiles and hippopotamus is often a direct results of human negligence. Some people have been attacked by these ferocious beast as they were busy washing their item or executing other activities while close to the river. It is important that we all take caution and not be negligent especially when close to the rivers or other water points and our alerts should be higher during times of flooding.

Farmers that often lose www.namfarmers.com.na

their livestock to predators such as leopards & cheetahs should get back to the drawing board by inspecting or analysing their farm if whether there are enough prey.

Lack of prey is one of the reasons, why predators end up catching live stocks. As a result, farmers should find ways to restock or get the prey back on their farm. This can be effectively achieved, if the farmer start well managing their rangeland.

A well-managed rangeland will attract and bring back the desired prey. Farmers should also employ livestock guarding dogs as they deter predators.

Wild animals do have their place and we shouldn`t be ignorant of the critical role that they play towards the tourism sector. Hence to further mitigate human wildlife conflicts, in our strategy and method of formulation, it should be executed in such a way that is both

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in the interest of wild animals and humanity. If given enough spaces of their own and less interference from humans, there is a greater chance that there will be less records and statistics of wildlife-

human conflict.

Tommy Thomas, is a wildlife ranger who helps with mitigating humanwildlife conflict.

Email:ihshilng@gmil.com

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Smart Hydroponic Grow System increases production by 40% Interview with Giovanni Lutri, producer from Scicli (RG)

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ne of the main problems affecting growers is the loss of soil vitality. Coir is applied to deal with this but, as irrigation strategies are often unsuitable, this technique does not always reach its full potential.

Obtaining active plants with a higher production potential is the objective of the Smart Hydroponic Grow System, an example of innovative technology and an Innovation Hub 2020 Awards finalist within the Fruit Attraction LIVEConnect fair.

Projar, producer of the Cocopeat and GoldenGrow brands, developed this system and tested it in Spain with a documented increase in production of up to 40% during the first year and 30% during the second year.

The model is suitable for all types of soil and combines the advantages of traditional cultivation with those of hydroponic cultivation.

The increase in productivity of the crops is closely connected to the fertigation strategies applied and adapted to the different nutritional and water needs of plants during the various phenological phases.

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The model is suitable for all types of soil and combines the advantages of traditional cultivation with those of hydroponic cultivation. in Spain, now this solution moves to Italy managed by Agrochimica and Agriblu, both partners of Projar and leading nursery companies who focus on innovation and new technologies to improve the production and profitability of their clients.

Producer Giovanni Lutri, owner of a company in Scicli (Ragusa), revolutionized the traditional cultivation method by introducing the Smart Hydroponic Grow System.

FreshPlaza interviewed him to learn more about his experience.

Why did you choose to try this new system?

We had been looking for a solution to make our work easier and increase production for some time.

After learning about this system and the results in Spain, we decided to make the change.

What improvements have you noticed in your production?

There were many improvements and they were all noticeable already during the first transplant phases.

It is a different way of working, What problems did you encounter much more efficient and focused before implementing this new on the productive performance of system? the crop. Since coir was introduced and the irrigation strategy was I mainly had problems in implemented, we have observed homogenizing the subsoil, an improvement in the growth which had unavoidable negative and development of plants. What consequences on the quality of is more, the produce is developing plants and their productivity. more uniformly and it is growing Production areas were irregular, more rapidly and sustainably. so a lot of time and energy was spent to sort and level them. What Have you noticed positive is more, irrigation was organized changes from the point of view of in a way that did not keep into production? consideration the specific needs of the soil or plants.

Yes. The root system colonizes the www.namfarmers.com.na

total volume of coir almost entirely.

Plants are healthy, vigorous and with a greater production potential.

What is more, the production cycle of plants ends sooner and with large volumes. This year, we are expecting 30-40% more produce than in the past season.

minimum. Technicians assessed our needs and created a specific development plan also based on our objectives. Installing the coir was rather easy, as was arranging the irrigation system. Anyway Projar and Agriblu technicians have always been there for us during the risk assessment, planning and installing phases.

The truth is I would not want to make things easy for the competition (laughs) but, to be honest, it is a turning point that leads to many advantages.

To learn more about Smart Hydroponic Grow System, download the technical guide: https:// Would you recommend Smart projarinternational.com/smartI was afraid it would be, but planning Hydroponic Grow System to other hydroponic-grow-system/ reduced potential difficulties to a companies?

Source: Fresh Plaza.com Was it difficult to install the Smart Hydroponic Grow System?

MEATCO EYES OPPORTUNITIES IN EUROPE AND THE UNITED KINGDOM

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s from February to December 2020, Meatco slaughtered 35 314 cattle compared to 115 305 in the previous year. The average producer price paid for the same period amounted to N$44.74 compared to N$44.23 in the prior year. The average carcass weight increased by 13 kgs from 229 kgs in 2019 to 242 kgs in 2020. Meatco paid out a total amount of N$ 382 million to producers over the past 11 months.

In his 2021 welcoming letter, Meatco CEO Mwilima Mushokabanji revealed that these statistics represents the difficult climate in which Meatco was operating over the past years.

Supply and demand dynamics played a huge part in the price paid as well as strategies implemented www.namfarmers.com.na

to obtain additional cattle.

As revealed in his welcoming letter, Mwilima says that 2021 is finally setting the birth of Brexit and they believe that it can alter opportunities for Meatco in Europe and United Kingdom (UK) markets.

With the onset of 2021, cattle prices in Europe remain firm while in the UK, prices started higher than the previous five-year` high points.

Mwilima also revealed that, Norway will remain their key focus market with China expected to also bring its significant contribution as the only market beyond Africa that accept bone-in beef products.

The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to continue impacting Meatcos` key markets, however, the effect is mostly on the change in customer buying patterns and expanding customer base

effectively.

Mwilima highlighted that, the strain on the restaurant and catering industries is affecting the sustainability of such businesses, some of which are reported to have closed.

As determined to serve all Namibian farmers throughout the country, Meatco has reached out to farmers as far as Gam enabling them to market their cattle directly to Meatco which will be slaughtered at their abattoir.

Mwilima stated that, Meatco shall operate the Rundu abattoir and provide technical support in the operation of Oshakati and Katima Mulilo abattoirs. The renovation of the Rundu abattoir is nearing completion and is expected to be handed over during the first quarter of this year.

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RESEARCHERS PLAN TO USE SATELLITES TO IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY, YIELD

wo of the nation’s great agricultural regions are the focus of new research that aims to head off emerging threats and improve sustainability.

Scientists with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) are joining colleagues to create and use artificial intelligence to help farmers in the Colorado River Basin and Salinas Valley, CA, improve their management of irrigation, fertilization, and pests.

USDA›s National Institute of Food and Agriculture funded the University of California, Riversideled project with a 5-year, $10 million grant.

“This project will integrate multiple satellite and meteorological data sets to help farmers in the Southwestern United States,” said Ray Anderson, a research soil scientist with the ARS Agricultural Water Efficiency and Salinity Research Unit in Riverside. Anderson leads the ARS portion of the study, working with ARS scientists Todd Skaggs and Andrew French.

ARS has three primary roles in the project: To calculate project area crop water use and anomalies with crop water use across the entire region; develop tools that help growers avoid salinity damage 22

while minimizing the leaching of fertilizer; and to gather field data to validate satellite algorithms.

high resolution satellite imagery, machine learning, and cloud processing will be available to smaller producers in one easy-to Researchers will take use tool. These algorithms will help advantage of advanced satellite farmers with their field scouting so technology to provide more that they can catch problems early, frequent, detailed information before significant yield reductions to farmers than ever before. The occur.” plan is to integrate high-resolution commercial satellite data with Agriculture in the Colorado established government satellite River Basin and Salinas Valley platforms and meteorological data. employs more than 500,000 people A major advance with this work will and generates roughly $12 billion be the use of daily, high-resolution annually in revenue. Farmers in the (12-foot) satellite imagery, regions grow fruits and vegetables Anderson said. Previously, data that are shipped around the have only been available every 1-2 country all year round, particularly weeks at 60- to 100-foot resolution in winter. and were too infrequent or coarse Water availability and to provide timely and actionable use top the researchers’ priority information to farmers. list because prolonged drought

“By combining the new has reduced agricultural water satellite data with artificial availability in the southwestern intelligence, we will be able to United States. discover and create tools that will “These valleys consume help farmers pinpoint areas that large amounts of irrigation water, need better irrigation, nutrient, and pest management,” Anderson said. but the amount and quality of irrigation water is decreasing,” “One of the major Anderson said. “It is important advantages to this project is that to use existing supplies more the outputs – recommendations efficiently and to protect water and highlights on a smartphone sources from nutrient and salinity app – will be accessible to all contamination that can come from farmers,” he said. “Previously, poor irrigation management.” farmers had to pay for aircraft and specialized processing to get this Source: USDA Agricultural level of imagery and detail. Soon, Research Service (Escot Elliott, ARS office of Communications). www.namfarmers.com.na

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